Two former top US Generals have blamed the Biden Administration for the chaotic departure of US forces from Afghanistan. Watch to know more!

US: Ex-Generals blame Biden administration for chaotic Kabul exit

Top former US Generals on Kabul withdrawal: Poor planning led to chaos

<p>An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that&nbsp;both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (<a href="https://twitter.com/deepti_jharwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepti_jharwal</a>) on the Indian side. <a href="https://t.co/4cDuy2NyJs">pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1765773305548542147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7).&nbsp;</p>

<p>India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a></strong></p>

<p>After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy.</p>

<p>India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan</strong></p>

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<p>Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption.</p>

<p>Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region".</p>

<p>Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students.</p>

<p>The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port.</p>

<p>While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (@deepti_jharwal) on the Indian side. pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 7, 2024 × JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7). India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting. Also read | Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy. India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost. Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha. Also watch | American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan × Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption. Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region". Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students. The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port. While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid. (With inputs from agencies)

India's senior diplomat meets Taliban representative in Kabul

On Inside South Asia this week with Bhairavi Singh: +Mariyam Nawaz makes history. Know all about Pakistan’s first female provincial chief minister +Beyond Toyota Corollas, sports car enthusiasts speed up in Kabul +Nepal mandates electronic chips for Mount Everest climbers + Meet the Gaganyaan crew

Maryam Nawaz- Pakistan's rising political star

An Indian representative attended a meeting convened by the Taliban government in Kabul even though New Delhi does not officially recognise the administration.

India's outreach to Taliban; Indian diplomat meets Taliban Foreign Minister

<p>Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the&nbsp;grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.</p>

<p>He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet</strong></p>

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<p>The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.</p>

<p>"The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement.</p>

<p>The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week.</p>

<h2><strong>Earlier attacks in Kabul</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks&nbsp;was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics.</p>

<p>IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan.</p>

<p>The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the&nbsp;number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized&nbsp;power in August 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a></strong></p>

<p>However, a&nbsp;number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan)&nbsp; -- remain a security&nbsp;threat for the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said.

Two people were killed in an explosion in Kabul on Thursday (Jan 11), the third such incident in less than a week. Twelve others were also injured in the grenade blast in PD 18 of Kabul, a spokesman for the Kabul security department, Khalid Zadran said. He added that an investigation is underway to arrest the perpetrator. Also watch | At least 32 killed in Kabul suicide blast in Afghanistan; no group has claimed responsibility yet × The grenade was detonated outside a commercial centre in the Dasht-e-Barchi area, an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community. "The initial information shows that unfortunately two civilian compatriots were martyred and 12 others were wounded," Zadran said in a statement. The blast is the second deadly explosion in the area in less than a week. Earlier attacks in Kabul On Saturday, a bomb planted on a bus killed at least five people and wounded 15 others. The responsibility for these attacks was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, which considers Shiites heretics. IS claimed responsibility for another blast days later in eastern Kabul, in which police said three people were killed and four wounded by a bomb hidden in a cart near a minivan. The recent attacks in Kabul mark an exit from a patter when the number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks in Afghanistan had declined after Taliban seized power in August 2021. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report However, a number of armed groups -- including IS (Khorasan) -- remain a security threat for the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul: Two killed as Afghanistan capital rocked by deadly explosion

<p>Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footage, which has gone viral on the internet, shows the men owing allegiance to the extremist regime smoothly skating amidst traffic, even alongside a moving truck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report from The Telegraph, the camouflage-clad Taliban members were not only navigating the streets on rollerblades but also took on the role of traffic directors.</p>

<p>The authenticity of the video was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Kabul Police, who stated that the individuals in the footage were officers from the public security police, operating with Afghanistan's interior ministry.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meanwhile, please join me in trying to figure out why there is a video of Taliban’s special forces roller skating around Kabul… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/8Wn15leKMR">pic.twitter.com/8Wn15leKMR</a></p>
— Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) <a href="https://twitter.com/KabirTaneja/status/1724288718633373980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Muslim Afghan, a member of the Taliban security team, expressed his amusement at the skating skills displayed by the organisation's younger members. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was really fun- amazing balance and body strength. It might be common in the world elsewhere, but for us, it was rare to see on the roads of Kabul," he told The Telegraph.</p>

<p>The video, initially shared on YouTube on November 11 by Yadullah Marvi, a self-described "parkour athlete" in Afghanistan, is a 22-minute spectacle.</p>

<p>The description of the 22-minute-long video reads, "The first part of the military performance of figure skating in the streets of Kabul."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>Marvi's description also teased more parts to come, showcasing both the figure skaters' movements and the reactions of the local populace.</p>

<p>"In this video, the movements of our figure skaters were filmed, and people's reactions were also filmed, and this is the first part of the video. Wait for the next parts!" the user wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban took back the control of Afghanistan after the United States concluded its troops withdrawal from the South Asia country in August 2021. In the two years since, the Taliban have imposed their interpretation of Shariah laws, with women barred from modern education and accessing public amenities and spaces where they could mingle with male counterparts. The United Nations has termed it "gender apartheid".</p>

<p><i>(With inputs from agencies)</i></p>


Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles.

Member of Afghanistan's Taliban regime were seen patrolling the streets of Afghan capital Kabul on rollerblades while brandishing the Kalashnikovs or AK-47 rifles. The footage, which has gone viral on the internet, shows the men owing allegiance to the extremist regime smoothly skating amidst traffic, even alongside a moving truck. According to a report from The Telegraph, the camouflage-clad Taliban members were not only navigating the streets on rollerblades but also took on the role of traffic directors. The authenticity of the video was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Kabul Police, who stated that the individuals in the footage were officers from the public security police, operating with Afghanistan's interior ministry. Meanwhile, please join me in trying to figure out why there is a video of Taliban’s special forces roller skating around Kabul… #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/8Wn15leKMR — Kabir Taneja (@KabirTaneja) November 14, 2023 × Muslim Afghan, a member of the Taliban security team, expressed his amusement at the skating skills displayed by the organisation's younger members. "It was really fun- amazing balance and body strength. It might be common in the world elsewhere, but for us, it was rare to see on the roads of Kabul," he told The Telegraph. The video, initially shared on YouTube on November 11 by Yadullah Marvi, a self-described "parkour athlete" in Afghanistan, is a 22-minute spectacle. The description of the 22-minute-long video reads, "The first part of the military performance of figure skating in the streets of Kabul." Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × Marvi's description also teased more parts to come, showcasing both the figure skaters' movements and the reactions of the local populace. "In this video, the movements of our figure skaters were filmed, and people's reactions were also filmed, and this is the first part of the video. Wait for the next parts!" the user wrote. Also read | Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus The Taliban took back the control of Afghanistan after the United States concluded its troops withdrawal from the South Asia country in August 2021. In the two years since, the Taliban have imposed their interpretation of Shariah laws, with women barred from modern education and accessing public amenities and spaces where they could mingle with male counterparts. The United Nations has termed it "gender apartheid". (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Taliban patrol Kabul's streets with rollerblades and Ak-47 rifles

Tens of thousands of Afghan refugees who fled the Taliban in 2021 scrambled to leave Pakistan on Tuesday, hours before the end of a deadline after which Islamabad plans to arrest or deport undocumented immigrants, a move that has drawn international criticism and fears of a humanitarian crisis.

Undocumented Afghans being detained in Pakistan, over 300 migrants arrested in Karachi

<p>Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said.</p>

<p>Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.</p>

<p>"A police investigation team has reached the area and is working to uncover the cause of the explosion," he said.</p>

<p>The nine injured had been taken to a hospital, he added, without providing details on the seriousness of their injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/about-200-afghan-refugees-to-relocate-from-pakistan-to-uk-on-charter-flights-on-oct-26-651419">&nbsp;About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26</a></strong></p>

<p>Images shared on social media that could not be immediately independently verified showed the sides blown out of part of a multi-story building that was still blazing with fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitts used in martial arts training were among shattered glass on the ground in one video and local media reports said the site of the blast housed a sports gym.</p>

<p>The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-gets-major-relief-from-court-army-dominated-nab-in-corruption-cases-651600">Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases</a></strong></p>

<p>The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government.</p>

<p>However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat.</p>


Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community.

Two people died and nine others were injured in an explosion at a commercial centre in the Afghan capital on Thursday, police said. Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran said in a message to reporters the explosion occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul -- an enclave of the historically oppressed Shiite Hazara community. "A police investigation team has reached the area and is working to uncover the cause of the explosion," he said. The nine injured had been taken to a hospital, he added, without providing details on the seriousness of their injuries. ALSO READ | About 200 Afghan refugees to relocate from Pakistan to UK on charter flights on Oct 26 Images shared on social media that could not be immediately independently verified showed the sides blown out of part of a multi-story building that was still blazing with fire. Mitts used in martial arts training were among shattered glass on the ground in one video and local media reports said the site of the blast housed a sports gym. The Islamic State group, which considers Shiites heretics, has carried out several deadly attacks in the same area in recent years targeting schools, mosques and gyms. ALSO READ | Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases The number of bomb blasts and suicide attacks has reduced dramatically since the Taliban ended their insurgency after seizing power in August 2021, ousting the US-backed government. However, a number of armed groups -- including the regional chapter of IS -- remain a threat.

Afghanistan: At least two killed, nine injured after blast in predominantly Shiite Kabul neighbourhood

Search and rescue operations are still underway days after a series of powerful earthquakes rocked Afghanistan and left thousands of people dead and injured.

Afghanistan earthquakes death toll rise to 400

On October 7, 2023, a powerful earthquake struck western Afghanistan, with a magnitude of 6.3. The epicentre was located 25 miles (40 kilometres) west of Herat city in the western Herat province. The earthquake was the third largest in Afghanistan and was followed by multiple aftershocks.

Earthquake in Afghanistan: More than 2000 killed, over 10,000 injured

It's been two years since the fall of Kabul. Afghanistan is the only country in the world where girls are prohibited from going to secondary school. Taliban authorities have imposed an austere interpretation of Islam since storming to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of the U.S.-led foreign forces that backed the previous governments. There are many who managed to flee the country to pursue their dreams. Many universities based out of the United States came up with different scholarships to help displaced Afghan students. How are these Afghan students doing now? Take a look

Afghan women in crisis: will world leaders at UNGA act now?

Is China Taliban's new best friend? China has become the first country to officially establish diplomatic ties with the Taliban. It has also appointed a new envoy in Kabul. What is China's game plan? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China formalises diplomatic ties with Taliban | China appoints envoy to Kabul

A gun battle erupted between Pakistan border forces and Afghan Taliban on the 6th of September. Both sides pinned the blame on each other for triggering the firefight which resulted in the shutdown of their busiest trade crossing. In a separate incident on the same day, Pakistan military claimed to have repelled a cross-border raid from Afghanistan by hundreds of Pakistan Taliban militants. Caretaker Pakistani foreign minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, tried to diffuse the situation by claiming that the Chitral attack was an isolated incident and didn't have the sanction of the Afghan government. On Saturday, seven more terrorists were killed by the security forces in an intense exchange of fire in the Chitral district. Since Taliban's ascension to power in Kabul two years ago, Islamabad and Kabul have had frosty relations. Islamabad has accused Kabul of harboring militants carrying out attacks on Pakistani soil, a charge denied by Afghan Taliban.

Busiest trade crossing between Pak-Afg shut down | World at War

<p>In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021.<br />
<br />
The humiliating experience was for the first time recounted in a new book, <em>Kabul: The Untold Story of Biden’s Fiasco and the American Warriors Who Fought to the End.</em><br />
<br />
On August 28, 2021, the passenger terminal of the Kabul airport was filthy after the United States' botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. For a week, more than 120,000 Afghans had camped at the terminal, “defecating and leaving trash, bags, clothes, and other unspeakable things.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/video-viral-shows-ttp-leader-giving-instructions-to-terrorists-involved-in-attack-on-pak-check-post-633668">Viral video shows Pak Taliban chief giving orders to terrorists involved in attack on check post</a></p>

<h2><strong>Order accompanied by threat</strong></h2>

<p>At every level, Marines were left infuriated after the officials were “forced to scoop up human poop.” The order to clean “came with a threat that we would not leave at all if it was not completed,” stated one junior Marine, while interacting with authors Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson.<br />
<br />
“It was degrading and ridiculous. We took a lot of casualties and put a lot of effort into that mission and to close it out that way was wrong. Morale was really down at that point, and it was an extremely pointless effort,” he added.<br />
<br />
“It was the final indignity for our military heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way to satisfy a callous commander-in-chief who kept changing his mind to suit the political winds,” the junior stated.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan Closes Vital Border Crossing with Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US' hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan</strong></h2>

<p>The withdrawal of the United States was completed on 30 August 2021 as the Taliban took over the war-ravaged country after waging a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces which had invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, in the wake of September 11 terror attacks that year.<br />
<br />
After the withdrawal, the US Central Command head said that there was "a lot of heartbreak" during the departure. The US and its NATO allies were forced to exit Afghanistan hastily as they failed to anticipate that the Taliban would take over so quickly.<br />
<br />
The military withdrawal of the United States from Afghanistan was completed after a huge and chaotic airlift which took the lives of 13 US service members, leaving behind hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghans still seeking an escape from Taliban rule.</p>

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In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021.

In a shocking revelation, a book recalled the horrific experience of US Marines when they were asked to collect human faeces and other disgusting garbage which had littered the airport and leave it clean for the Taliban before exiting Kabul in August 2021. The humiliating experience was for the first time recounted in a new book, Kabul: The Untold Story of Biden’s Fiasco and the American Warriors Who Fought to the End. On August 28, 2021, the passenger terminal of the Kabul airport was filthy after the United States' botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. For a week, more than 120,000 Afghans had camped at the terminal, “defecating and leaving trash, bags, clothes, and other unspeakable things.” ALSO READ | Viral video shows Pak Taliban chief giving orders to terrorists involved in attack on check post Order accompanied by threat At every level, Marines were left infuriated after the officials were “forced to scoop up human poop.” The order to clean “came with a threat that we would not leave at all if it was not completed,” stated one junior Marine, while interacting with authors Jerry Dunleavy and James Hasson. “It was degrading and ridiculous. We took a lot of casualties and put a lot of effort into that mission and to close it out that way was wrong. Morale was really down at that point, and it was an extremely pointless effort,” he added. “It was the final indignity for our military heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way to satisfy a callous commander-in-chief who kept changing his mind to suit the political winds,” the junior stated. WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan Closes Vital Border Crossing with Afghanistan US' hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan The withdrawal of the United States was completed on 30 August 2021 as the Taliban took over the war-ravaged country after waging a 20-year insurgency against US-led forces which had invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, in the wake of September 11 terror attacks that year. After the withdrawal, the US Central Command head said that there was "a lot of heartbreak" during the departure. The US and its NATO allies were forced to exit Afghanistan hastily as they failed to anticipate that the Taliban would take over so quickly. The military withdrawal of the United States from Afghanistan was completed after a huge and chaotic airlift which took the lives of 13 US service members, leaving behind hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghans still seeking an escape from Taliban rule. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Degrading and ridiculous’ | US Marines picked human faeces before leaving Kabul

Mirwais Balkhi, a former Afghan education minister who fled his homeland two years ago in the wake of the Taliban's takeover, now lives in the United States. In the West, he and his friends, who also escaped Afghanistan in 2021, now grapple with depression. In this exclusive chat with WION's Heena Sharma, he talks about how his heart still longs for Kabul.

EXCLUSIVE: In US, former Afghan education minister's heart still longs for Kabul

<p>Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country.&nbsp;This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban's takeover prompted a reevaluation of Afghanistan's standing on the global stage, with nations deliberating on diplomatic recognition and their respective approaches to engagement. Regional players, like India, also sought to navigate their positions, considering potential impacts on security dynamics and the broader stability of the South Asian region.</p>

<p>On the second anniversary of the Taliban's seizure of power, the world reflects on the multifaceted changes that have taken place within Afghanistan. While the full extent of these changes continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: the events of these past two years have left an indelible mark on Afghan society, politics, and its position in the global arena.</p>

<h2><strong>End of America's 20-year war</strong></h2>

<p>The withdrawal of US forces, ending the 20-year-old war, brought about challenges and criticism. The chaotic manner in which the withdrawal was executed raised questions about the US handling of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-regime-leader-open-to-explore-diplomacy-625135">Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy'</a></p>

<p>In their previous reign during the late 1990s, the Taliban were known for conducting public executions, floggings, and stoning as punishments for individuals found guilty of crimes in Taliban courts.</p>

<p>Taliban 2.0, initially presented themselves as more moderate compared to their previous rule. However, their unmatched actions and decisions have sparked controversy and challenges on both domestic and international fronts, with no certainty as to what the future holds for Afghanistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Women's rights under attack</strong></h2>

<p>One of the most notable and controversial aspects of the Taliban has been the exclusion of Afghan girls and women from various aspects of public life. A series of bans were imposed, preventing women from accessing higher education, employment, beauty salons and parks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rationale behind these bans is the Taliban's commitment to their interpretation of Sharia law.</p>

<p>These restrictions have been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, causing the Taliban to face challenges in gaining international recognition and access to foreign aid.</p>

<p>In December of the past year, the Taliban enforced a ban on women accessing campuses, which sparked widespread global outrage.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-four-killed-several-injured-after-attack-on-shiite-muslim-shrine-in-iran-reports-625123">At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports</a></p>

<p>Prior to that, girls were prohibited from attending school beyond the sixth grade, an order that came shortly after the Taliban reclaimed authority in August 2021. Afghanistan is reportedly the sole nation with such restrictions on female education.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Economic challenges&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban have faced economic challenges due to the withdrawal of foreign aid and international sanctions. The majority of Afghanistan's budget had been supported by international donors, but with the Taliban taking over, aid was suspended, leading to a financial crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taliban have engaged in talks with neighbouring countries, such as China and Kazakhstan, to secure investments and the release of frozen funds.&nbsp;However, the international community has linked economic cooperation to improvements in women's rights and other human rights issues, creating difficulties for the Taliban leadership.</p>

<p>Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, holds significant influence over decision-making, including the implementation of gender restrictions.&nbsp;Akhundzada's decisions are final.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>International recognition&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban have sought international recognition as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, but this has been met with challenges due to concerns about their human rights record and commitments. While the Taliban leadership has engaged in diplomatic interactions with various countries, including powerful states like China and Russia, formal recognition has been elusive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo</strong></p>

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<p>Sanctions and travel restrictions on Taliban officials have also hindered their foreign outreach. However, the international community recognises the need to cooperate with the Taliban on issues such as narcotics, refugees, and counter-terrorism.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges to Taliban rule</strong></h2>

<p>While the Taliban have managed to establish control over Afghanistan, challenges to their rule have persisted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Panjshir Valley, a region historically resistant to outside control, has seen pockets of opposition. However, the Taliban's dominance in terms of both armed and political opposition has largely prevented any significant threats to their rule. The Islamic State, though weakened, has carried out attacks against the Taliban, highlighting the ongoing security concerns.</p>

<h2><strong>A complex road ahead</strong></h2>

<p>The Taliban's second year in power has been marked by a mix of attempts to consolidate their rule, address economic challenges, and engage with the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, their strict interpretation of Islamic law, particularly in relation to women's rights, has drawn significant attention and criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The challenges of governing a country with a fragile economy, security concerns, and international pressure present a complex road ahead for the Taliban as they seek to navigate their position on the global stage while also maintaining control domestically.</p>

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Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country. This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations.

Two years have passed since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, a sad day for many in the country. This period has witnessed significant changes in various aspects of Afghan society, be it governance or economy, or international relations. The Taliban's takeover prompted a reevaluation of Afghanistan's standing on the global stage, with nations deliberating on diplomatic recognition and their respective approaches to engagement. Regional players, like India, also sought to navigate their positions, considering potential impacts on security dynamics and the broader stability of the South Asian region. On the second anniversary of the Taliban's seizure of power, the world reflects on the multifaceted changes that have taken place within Afghanistan. While the full extent of these changes continues to unfold, one thing remains certain: the events of these past two years have left an indelible mark on Afghan society, politics, and its position in the global arena. End of America's 20-year war The withdrawal of US forces, ending the 20-year-old war, brought about challenges and criticism. The chaotic manner in which the withdrawal was executed raised questions about the US handling of the situation. Also Read | Niger regime leader 'open to explore diplomacy' In their previous reign during the late 1990s, the Taliban were known for conducting public executions, floggings, and stoning as punishments for individuals found guilty of crimes in Taliban courts. Taliban 2.0, initially presented themselves as more moderate compared to their previous rule. However, their unmatched actions and decisions have sparked controversy and challenges on both domestic and international fronts, with no certainty as to what the future holds for Afghanistan. Women's rights under attack One of the most notable and controversial aspects of the Taliban has been the exclusion of Afghan girls and women from various aspects of public life. A series of bans were imposed, preventing women from accessing higher education, employment, beauty salons and parks. The rationale behind these bans is the Taliban's commitment to their interpretation of Sharia law. These restrictions have been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, causing the Taliban to face challenges in gaining international recognition and access to foreign aid. In December of the past year, the Taliban enforced a ban on women accessing campuses, which sparked widespread global outrage. Also Read | At least one killed, several injured after attack on Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran: Reports Prior to that, girls were prohibited from attending school beyond the sixth grade, an order that came shortly after the Taliban reclaimed authority in August 2021. Afghanistan is reportedly the sole nation with such restrictions on female education. Economic challenges The Taliban have faced economic challenges due to the withdrawal of foreign aid and international sanctions. The majority of Afghanistan's budget had been supported by international donors, but with the Taliban taking over, aid was suspended, leading to a financial crisis. The Taliban have engaged in talks with neighbouring countries, such as China and Kazakhstan, to secure investments and the release of frozen funds. However, the international community has linked economic cooperation to improvements in women's rights and other human rights issues, creating difficulties for the Taliban leadership. Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, holds significant influence over decision-making, including the implementation of gender restrictions. Akhundzada's decisions are final. International recognition The Taliban have sought international recognition as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, but this has been met with challenges due to concerns about their human rights record and commitments. While the Taliban leadership has engaged in diplomatic interactions with various countries, including powerful states like China and Russia, formal recognition has been elusive. WATCH | Chinese vessel prepares to dock to Colombo × Sanctions and travel restrictions on Taliban officials have also hindered their foreign outreach. However, the international community recognises the need to cooperate with the Taliban on issues such as narcotics, refugees, and counter-terrorism. Challenges to Taliban rule While the Taliban have managed to establish control over Afghanistan, challenges to their rule have persisted. The Panjshir Valley, a region historically resistant to outside control, has seen pockets of opposition. However, the Taliban's dominance in terms of both armed and political opposition has largely prevented any significant threats to their rule. The Islamic State, though weakened, has carried out attacks against the Taliban, highlighting the ongoing security concerns. A complex road ahead The Taliban's second year in power has been marked by a mix of attempts to consolidate their rule, address economic challenges, and engage with the international community. However, their strict interpretation of Islamic law, particularly in relation to women's rights, has drawn significant attention and criticism. The challenges of governing a country with a fragile economy, security concerns, and international pressure present a complex road ahead for the Taliban as they seek to navigate their position on the global stage while also maintaining control domestically. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

EXPLAINED | Key changes in Afghanistan under two years of Taliban rule

<p>The fate of female students in Afghanistan's universities hangs in the balance as they await a pivotal decision from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.</p>

<p>The universities are ready to readmit female students, but the ultimate authority to lift the ban imposed last December lies squarely with Akhundzada, as reported by the Associated Press.</p>

<h2><strong>Afghan women banned from attending universities</strong></h2>

<p>The ban on women attending universities, which was enforced in December of the previous year, had triggered international outrage.</p>

<p>This prohibition came on the heels of a prior restriction that prohibited girls from attending school beyond the sixth grade after the Taliban's resurgence in August 2021. Afghanistan is the only country in the world with such comprehensive bans on female education.</p>

<p>Nida Mohammed Nadim, Afghanistan's higher education minister, had justified the university ban by citing concerns over gender mixing and the alleged contradiction of certain subjects with Islamic principles. The directive, originating from Taliban leader Akhundzada in the city of Kandahar, was due to remain&nbsp;in effect "until further notice."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-taliban-couldnt-silence-her-this-exiled-afghan-journo-is-changing-lives-one-story-at-a-time-623453">Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time</a></p>

<p>Molvi Abdul Jabbar, an adviser at the Higher Education Ministry, shed light on the situation, revealing that universities are fully prepared to admit female students as soon as Akhundzada gives the order to lift the ban. However, the exact timeline and the likelihood of this decision remain uncertain. Jabbar emphasised that the universities' operational status hinges solely on the leader's decree.</p>

<p>Jabbar's insights highlight the significant influence wielded by Akhundzada over the Taliban's decision-making process. Although differing viewpoints within the group have been speculated upon, chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promptly rejected reports of any internal divisions. This ongoing dynamic underscores Akhundzada's unwavering authority and control within the organisation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;What is it like to be a working woman in Afghanistan? | WION Exclusive</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-working-woman-in-afghanistan-wion-exclusive-624693/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Nadim had previously presented the university ban as a temporary measure, ostensibly aimed at addressing concerns related to gender segregation, course content, and dress codes. He had also reassured the public that universities would reopen their doors to women once these pertinent issues were satisfactorily resolved. A similar promise had been made with regards to high school classes for girls, contingent upon addressing logistical challenges. However, as of now, girls' access to education remains restricted in practice.</div>

<p>The unfolding scenario sets the stage for a critical juncture in Afghanistan's evolving educational landscape.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The fate of female students in Afghanistan's universities hangs in the balance as they await a pivotal decision from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The universities are ready to readmit female students, but the ultimate authority to lift the ban imposed last December lies squarely with Akhundzada, as reported by the Associated Press.

The fate of female students in Afghanistan's universities hangs in the balance as they await a pivotal decision from Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The universities are ready to readmit female students, but the ultimate authority to lift the ban imposed last December lies squarely with Akhundzada, as reported by the Associated Press. Afghan women banned from attending universities The ban on women attending universities, which was enforced in December of the previous year, had triggered international outrage. This prohibition came on the heels of a prior restriction that prohibited girls from attending school beyond the sixth grade after the Taliban's resurgence in August 2021. Afghanistan is the only country in the world with such comprehensive bans on female education. Nida Mohammed Nadim, Afghanistan's higher education minister, had justified the university ban by citing concerns over gender mixing and the alleged contradiction of certain subjects with Islamic principles. The directive, originating from Taliban leader Akhundzada in the city of Kandahar, was due to remain in effect "until further notice." Also read | Exclusive | Taliban couldn’t silence her: This exiled Afghan journalist is changing lives, one story at a time Molvi Abdul Jabbar, an adviser at the Higher Education Ministry, shed light on the situation, revealing that universities are fully prepared to admit female students as soon as Akhundzada gives the order to lift the ban. However, the exact timeline and the likelihood of this decision remain uncertain. Jabbar emphasised that the universities' operational status hinges solely on the leader's decree. Jabbar's insights highlight the significant influence wielded by Akhundzada over the Taliban's decision-making process. Although differing viewpoints within the group have been speculated upon, chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid promptly rejected reports of any internal divisions. This ongoing dynamic underscores Akhundzada's unwavering authority and control within the organisation. Also watch | What is it like to be a working woman in Afghanistan? | WION Exclusive Nadim had previously presented the university ban as a temporary measure, ostensibly aimed at addressing concerns related to gender segregation, course content, and dress codes. He had also reassured the public that universities would reopen their doors to women once these pertinent issues were satisfactorily resolved. A similar promise had been made with regards to high school classes for girls, contingent upon addressing logistical challenges. However, as of now, girls' access to education remains restricted in practice. The unfolding scenario sets the stage for a critical juncture in Afghanistan's evolving educational landscape. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Women's education in limbo: Afghan universities await Taliban leader's approval for readmission

<p>Mirwais Balkhi, a former Afghan education minister who fled his homeland two years ago in the wake of the Taliban's takeover, now lives in the United States. In the West, he and his friends, who also escaped Afghanistan in 2021, now grapple&nbsp;with depression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are all suffering the highest level of depression," Balkhi admitted to WION. His voice carried the weight of shared sorrow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that many who left Afghanistan, himself included, sought solace in Western and North American countries. However, he said the new surroundings cannot fully replace the sense of familiarity they left behind.</p>

<h2><strong>Diplomacy to diaspora</strong></h2>

<p>Engaging in a candid conversation with WION, Balkhi revealed that now in the West the feeling of "idleness" haunts him and his Afghan friends in exile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We feel a burden to other societies," he said adding, "We were useful assets in Afghanistan".&nbsp;He also does not shy away from admitting that, at times, regret gnaws at him for leaving Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At the bottom of our hearts, we feel we have lost so badly, we lost Afghanistan, we lost our dreams," he confessed.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Balki did his education in India and he was also the deputy chief of mission at the Afghan embassy in New Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was in India for 12 years," he reminisced as his tone softened. "I have done my study in India. I did my diplomatic career in India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the subcontinent, he found a sense of belonging, drawing parallels between Delhi and Kabul. The commonalities mostly were able to serve as a balm for his homesickness.</p>

<h2><strong>Nation's fall into Taliban's&nbsp;hands&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>August 15, 2021, marked a sombre turning point for Balkhi and his friends.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was as usual... I left my home for university to take classes," he recalled, a sense of normalcy threading through his words.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the day's events quickly shattered that normalcy, he said. The city's atmosphere shifted dramatically, roads were blocked, and rumours of the Taliban's return circulated.</p>

<p>"I realized that I was mistaken," Balkhi conceded and said&nbsp;that the Taliban's actions contradicted the narrative at the time that they have changed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The extrajudicial activities in Afghanistan revealed the true face of Taliban 2.0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balkhi, whose writings are anti-Talibani, recognised soon enough that there is a threat to his life under the new regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He knew he had to leave.</p>

<h2><strong>Education is the key</strong></h2>

<p>For Balkhi, education was central to Afghanistan's progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having served in the Ministry of Education during a time of security upheaval, he understood the pivotal role schools played in shaping the nation's future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even in remote areas," he said, recalling the days before the Taliban made a comeback,&nbsp;"it was not the case" that girls were prevented from going to school. However, the Taliban's rise led to the closure of hundreds of schools, thwarting the progress he had strived for.</p>

<h2><strong>Hope in the face of uncertainty</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the dark clouds cast by the Taliban's return, Balkhi is optimistic about Afghanistan's resilience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I still believe that the Taliban could not long-last," he asserted,&nbsp;placing faith in the bravery of Afghan women who are resisting.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>A cautionary message&nbsp;</b></h2>

<p>Balkhi concluded his conversation with WION with a cautionary message to the world.&nbsp;"Afghanistan will be the unique case," he predicted, "where diplomatic ties will be formed with a terrorist group".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He urged the global community to "act jointly before it is too difficult to compensate".&nbsp;Mirwais Balkhi's journey, marked by hope, captures the intricate layers of a nation in turmoil.</p>

<p>As he navigates his new life on foreign soil, his thoughts often return to the country he still considers home. He yearns for the day when the shadows of despair will recede, and the light of progress will once again illuminate Afghanistan's path.</p>

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Mirwais Balkhi, a former Afghan education minister who fled his homeland two years ago in the wake of the Taliban's takeover, now lives in the United States. In the West, he and his friends, who also escaped Afghanistan in 2021, now grapple with depression.

Mirwais Balkhi, a former Afghan education minister who fled his homeland two years ago in the wake of the Taliban's takeover, now lives in the United States. In the West, he and his friends, who also escaped Afghanistan in 2021, now grapple with depression. "We are all suffering the highest level of depression," Balkhi admitted to WION. His voice carried the weight of shared sorrow. He said that many who left Afghanistan, himself included, sought solace in Western and North American countries. However, he said the new surroundings cannot fully replace the sense of familiarity they left behind. Diplomacy to diaspora Engaging in a candid conversation with WION, Balkhi revealed that now in the West the feeling of "idleness" haunts him and his Afghan friends in exile. "We feel a burden to other societies," he said adding, "We were useful assets in Afghanistan". He also does not shy away from admitting that, at times, regret gnaws at him for leaving Afghanistan. "At the bottom of our hearts, we feel we have lost so badly, we lost Afghanistan, we lost our dreams," he confessed. Balki did his education in India and he was also the deputy chief of mission at the Afghan embassy in New Delhi. "I was in India for 12 years," he reminisced as his tone softened. "I have done my study in India. I did my diplomatic career in India." In the subcontinent, he found a sense of belonging, drawing parallels between Delhi and Kabul. The commonalities mostly were able to serve as a balm for his homesickness. Nation's fall into Taliban's hands August 15, 2021, marked a sombre turning point for Balkhi and his friends. "It was as usual... I left my home for university to take classes," he recalled, a sense of normalcy threading through his words. But the day's events quickly shattered that normalcy, he said. The city's atmosphere shifted dramatically, roads were blocked, and rumours of the Taliban's return circulated. "I realized that I was mistaken," Balkhi conceded and said that the Taliban's actions contradicted the narrative at the time that they have changed. The extrajudicial activities in Afghanistan revealed the true face of Taliban 2.0. Balkhi, whose writings are anti-Talibani, recognised soon enough that there is a threat to his life under the new regime. He knew he had to leave. Education is the key For Balkhi, education was central to Afghanistan's progress. Having served in the Ministry of Education during a time of security upheaval, he understood the pivotal role schools played in shaping the nation's future. "Even in remote areas," he said, recalling the days before the Taliban made a comeback, "it was not the case" that girls were prevented from going to school. However, the Taliban's rise led to the closure of hundreds of schools, thwarting the progress he had strived for. Hope in the face of uncertainty Despite the dark clouds cast by the Taliban's return, Balkhi is optimistic about Afghanistan's resilience. "I still believe that the Taliban could not long-last," he asserted, placing faith in the bravery of Afghan women who are resisting. A cautionary message Balkhi concluded his conversation with WION with a cautionary message to the world. "Afghanistan will be the unique case," he predicted, "where diplomatic ties will be formed with a terrorist group". He urged the global community to "act jointly before it is too difficult to compensate". Mirwais Balkhi's journey, marked by hope, captures the intricate layers of a nation in turmoil. As he navigates his new life on foreign soil, his thoughts often return to the country he still considers home. He yearns for the day when the shadows of despair will recede, and the light of progress will once again illuminate Afghanistan's path. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Iran's president on Thursday issued a warning to Afghanistan's Taliban leaders not to infringe on Iranian citizens' water rights over their shared Helmand River.

Tehran warns Kabul over violation of its water rights

For years Pakistan has tried to gain strategic depth against India. How? By using its ties with Afghanistan. If that were the case, looks like times are changing. Afghan Embassy Denounces Taliban's replacement for Ambassador to India. What are we talking about?

Gravitas: Afghanistan denounces change of guard

The Afghan Embassy in New Delhi in India the country's taliban-led foreign Ministry has ordered changed in leadership as its Embassy in the Indian capital. A simmering Face-Off between Kabul and its Embassy in India is out in the open now the former had earlier issue a letter for trains of God at the embassy in India on April 28th reports the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Afghanistan had chosen Muhammad Kadasha to lead the embassy a claim which was refuted by current ambassador Farid Mamusde now Shah has previously served as the embassy secretary in India employees at the embassy have collectively refused to welcome the decision from Kabul.

New Delhi: Power tussle at Afghan embassy

Pakistan's Defence Minister and spy Chief held talks with the Taliban officials in Kabul and they discussed ways to counter the threat of terrorism. This comes just days after Pakistan blamed Afghan Taliban of harbouring terrorists from its homegrown version of the extremist group.

Pakistan delegation meets Taliban officials, discuss TTP threats

The Presidents of China and Iran in a joint statement asked the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to form an inclusive government in which all ethnicities and political groups could see them represented.

Iran, China call for inclusive government in Kabul

The Taliban raided an Islamic State hideout in Kabul overnight. According to a Taliban spokesperson, the raid was said to have targeted Islamic State militants who were responsible for the recent organised attacks in Kabul recently.

Taliban targets Islamic State hideout in Kabul, kills IS fighters in raid

<p>Former Afghanistan Vice President and ethnic Uzbek&nbsp;leader of the Junbish-e Milli political party, General Abdul Rashid Dostum declared war against Taliban this week. General Dostum, who once aligned himself with Ahmad Shah Massoud-led Northern Alliance to oust Taliban when it first came to power in the 1990s, said that he will soon begin the struggle for Afghanistan's freedom. Dostum added that if he is killed upon entering Afghanistan at Hairatan -- one of the outposts at Afghanistan-Uzbekistan border -- he would not regret his actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>General Dostum was among the leaders who escaped Kabul&nbsp;days after&nbsp;Kabul fell to thew Taliban hardliners in August 2021.</p>

<h2><strong>Abdul Rashid Dostum: The 'CIA asset' who became Afghanistan's vice president</strong></h2>

<p>Abdul Rashid Dostum had been the&nbsp;first vice president of Afghanistan (2014-2020), and marshal in the Afghan National Army is another key face in Afghan politics. After being run out of the country by the Taliban during their rise to power, he returned to the country, widely perceived as a&nbsp;'CIA asset'.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exiled-afghan-warlord-organising-group-in-turkey-against-taliban-481388">Exiled Afghan warlord organising group in Turkey against Taliban</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2018, Dostum was accused of killing hundreds of Taliban prisoners of war. The methods included stuffing the prisoners of war into shipping containers where they often suffocated.</p>

<h2><strong>Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Should Return Former Govt’s Helicopters to NRF Fighters:&nbsp;Dostum</strong></h2>

<p>Dostum recently called on Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to hand over the former government army’s helicopters to National Resistance Front (NRF) fighters.&nbsp;He said that these helicopters should be used by the NRF personnel in different provinces of Afghanistan.</p>

<p>At least 40 helicopters of the former democratically-elected government’s army were transferred to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, Dostum said in London. Earlier, the defence ministry of the United States had announced that 46 flights had landed in Uzbekistan and 18 in Tajikistan until August 21, 2021, a week after Taliban took over Kabul.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Afghanistan: NRF still remains a thorn at Taliban's side</strong></p>

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<p>In April, Uzbek authorities had announced that helicopters and aircraft of Afghanistan’s former government will not be handed to the Taliban.&nbsp;Ismatullah Irgashev, Uzbekistan’s special representative for Afghanistan had said that the military equipment belongs to the United States . He said that these equipment&nbsp;will be kept in Uzbekistan in collaboration with Washington.</p>

<p>Abdul Rashid Dostum says that the Taliban kills former Afghan National Army with no mercy – the group conducts door-to-door search operations, find former army personnel, tortures them in the worst possible manner, and eventually kills them.</p>

<p>Dostum's remarks come days after the US-based Brookings Institution released an investigative report that claimed NRF's resistance would not pose any immediate threats to the Taliban regime.</p>


Former Afghanistan Vice President and ethnic Uzbek leader of the Junbish-e Milli political party, General Abdul Rashid Dostum declared war against Taliban this week.

Former Afghanistan Vice President and ethnic Uzbek leader of the Junbish-e Milli political party, General Abdul Rashid Dostum declared war against Taliban this week. General Dostum, who once aligned himself with Ahmad Shah Massoud-led Northern Alliance to oust Taliban when it first came to power in the 1990s, said that he will soon begin the struggle for Afghanistan's freedom. Dostum added that if he is killed upon entering Afghanistan at Hairatan -- one of the outposts at Afghanistan-Uzbekistan border -- he would not regret his actions. General Dostum was among the leaders who escaped Kabul days after Kabul fell to thew Taliban hardliners in August 2021. Abdul Rashid Dostum: The 'CIA asset' who became Afghanistan's vice president Abdul Rashid Dostum had been the first vice president of Afghanistan (2014-2020), and marshal in the Afghan National Army is another key face in Afghan politics. After being run out of the country by the Taliban during their rise to power, he returned to the country, widely perceived as a 'CIA asset'. ALSO READ | Exiled Afghan warlord organising group in Turkey against Taliban In 2018, Dostum was accused of killing hundreds of Taliban prisoners of war. The methods included stuffing the prisoners of war into shipping containers where they often suffocated. Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Should Return Former Govt’s Helicopters to NRF Fighters: Dostum Dostum recently called on Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to hand over the former government army’s helicopters to National Resistance Front (NRF) fighters. He said that these helicopters should be used by the NRF personnel in different provinces of Afghanistan. At least 40 helicopters of the former democratically-elected government’s army were transferred to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, Dostum said in London. Earlier, the defence ministry of the United States had announced that 46 flights had landed in Uzbekistan and 18 in Tajikistan until August 21, 2021, a week after Taliban took over Kabul. ALSO WATCH | Afghanistan: NRF still remains a thorn at Taliban's side × In April, Uzbek authorities had announced that helicopters and aircraft of Afghanistan’s former government will not be handed to the Taliban. Ismatullah Irgashev, Uzbekistan’s special representative for Afghanistan had said that the military equipment belongs to the United States . He said that these equipment will be kept in Uzbekistan in collaboration with Washington. Abdul Rashid Dostum says that the Taliban kills former Afghan National Army with no mercy – the group conducts door-to-door search operations, find former army personnel, tortures them in the worst possible manner, and eventually kills them. Dostum's remarks come days after the US-based Brookings Institution released an investigative report that claimed NRF's resistance would not pose any immediate threats to the Taliban regime.

Who is General Dostum? The Uzbek strongman who has declared war on Taliban

Is ISIL-K planning to attack the Indian Embassy in Kabul? A UN report says the diplomatic missions of India, China & Iran are on the group's target.

Gravitas: ISIL-K planning to attack Indian Embassy in Kabul?

<p>Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News.

Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave. A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return. Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports. Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia shuts embassy in Kabul, diplomats may relocate to Pakistani capital: Reports

<p>After US soldiers evicted the war-torn country, many people made the decision to flee Afghanistan to save their lives. Everyone heard distressing voices coming from Afghanistan after the Taliban overthrew Hamid Karzai's administration in Kabul. Some former lawmakers and women's rights activists chose to stay in Afghanistan while others fled the country in grief, reluctantly leaving their motherland. Mursal Nabizada, a 32-year-old former member of parliament from Afghanistan, was among the ones who stayed behind. She was outspoken in her opposition to the Taliban and their anti-women diktats. On Saturday, she was shot dead by unknown assailants in Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Mursal Nabizada?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Mursal Nabizada was born in Afghanistan's Nangarhar Province in 1993. In 2018, when Afghanistan had a democratic government led by Hamid Karzai, she was chosen to represent the eastern province of Nangarhar. As Kabul's representative from 2019, Nabizada held office until the Taliban's takeover in August 2021. She worked at the Institute for Human Resources Development and Research outside of parliament. She spoke out against the Taliban's anti-women policies in addition to representing Kabul in the Afghan National Assembly.</p>

<h2><strong>Mursal Nabizada shot dead&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to multiple reports, Nabizada and her bodyguard were shot dead at their house on Saturday by unidentified gunmen. Her brother and a second bodyguard were apparently hurt at the time of the event, and a third bodyguard is said to have escaped with the house's cash and jewels. Local police chief Molvi Hamidullah Khalid said that Nabizada was killed on the first floor of her house, which she used as her office. The police also stated that an investigation into the killing was ongoing but they did not provide any information on the potential motives. The police disclosed that she and her guard were shot at about 3 am.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Condolences pour in for Mursal Nabizada&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Former lawmakers and other human rights activists poured in their condolences over the death of Mursal Nabizada. Mariam Solaimankhil while taking to Twitter termed Nabizada as a true trailblazer and said that a diamond is lost but her legacy will live on. A European Union member, Hannah Neumann also offered her prayers for the late Nabizada. Expressing grief and anger, she said that Nabizada was killed in darkness, but the Taliban build their system of Gender Apartheid in full daylight.</p>

<h2><strong>UN chief calls for probe</strong></h2>

<p>Antonio Guterres, the secretary-general of the UN, demanded an investigation into the killing of Nabizada in Kabul. According to the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephanie Tremblay, the Secretary-General demanded an immediate, exhaustive, and transparent investigation as well as the prosecution of the offenders.</p>


After US soldiers evicted the war-torn country, many people made the decision to flee Afghanistan to save their lives. Everyone heard distressing voices coming from Afghanistan after the Taliban overthrew Hamid Karzai's administration in Kabul.

After US soldiers evicted the war-torn country, many people made the decision to flee Afghanistan to save their lives. Everyone heard distressing voices coming from Afghanistan after the Taliban overthrew Hamid Karzai's administration in Kabul. Some former lawmakers and women's rights activists chose to stay in Afghanistan while others fled the country in grief, reluctantly leaving their motherland. Mursal Nabizada, a 32-year-old former member of parliament from Afghanistan, was among the ones who stayed behind. She was outspoken in her opposition to the Taliban and their anti-women diktats. On Saturday, she was shot dead by unknown assailants in Kabul. Who was Mursal Nabizada? Mursal Nabizada was born in Afghanistan's Nangarhar Province in 1993. In 2018, when Afghanistan had a democratic government led by Hamid Karzai, she was chosen to represent the eastern province of Nangarhar. As Kabul's representative from 2019, Nabizada held office until the Taliban's takeover in August 2021. She worked at the Institute for Human Resources Development and Research outside of parliament. She spoke out against the Taliban's anti-women policies in addition to representing Kabul in the Afghan National Assembly. Mursal Nabizada shot dead According to multiple reports, Nabizada and her bodyguard were shot dead at their house on Saturday by unidentified gunmen. Her brother and a second bodyguard were apparently hurt at the time of the event, and a third bodyguard is said to have escaped with the house's cash and jewels. Local police chief Molvi Hamidullah Khalid said that Nabizada was killed on the first floor of her house, which she used as her office. The police also stated that an investigation into the killing was ongoing but they did not provide any information on the potential motives. The police disclosed that she and her guard were shot at about 3 am. Condolences pour in for Mursal Nabizada Former lawmakers and other human rights activists poured in their condolences over the death of Mursal Nabizada. Mariam Solaimankhil while taking to Twitter termed Nabizada as a true trailblazer and said that a diamond is lost but her legacy will live on. A European Union member, Hannah Neumann also offered her prayers for the late Nabizada. Expressing grief and anger, she said that Nabizada was killed in darkness, but the Taliban build their system of Gender Apartheid in full daylight. UN chief calls for probe Antonio Guterres, the secretary-general of the UN, demanded an investigation into the killing of Nabizada in Kabul. According to the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephanie Tremblay, the Secretary-General demanded an immediate, exhaustive, and transparent investigation as well as the prosecution of the offenders.

Who was Mursal Nabizada, the first of former Afghan MPs shot dead in Kabul?

Former Afghanistan lawmaker Mursal Nabizada and her security guard were shot dead at her home in Kabul. Nabizada represented Kabul in Afghanistan's parliament from 2019 until the government was deposed by the Taliban in August 2021.

Former Afghanistan lawmaker Mursal Nabizada shot dead at her home in Kabul

A blast occurred in front of the Taliban-led Ministry of Foreign Affairs' building in Kabul. More than 20 people are reported to be dead in the attack. In the latest development, Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul suicide blast

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